Investing in our future

The Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust is currently undertaking three major construction projects.

Chase Farm Hospital redevelopment

When the trust acquired Barnet and Chase Farm Hospitals NHS Trust in July 2014 (see A bigger trust, a better future), it made a commitment to redevelop Chase Farm Hospital, making it fit for purpose to deliver 21st century healthcare and to provide world class care close to where our patients live.

The new hospital, set to open in autumn 2018, will provide out-patient services including diagnostics, musculoskeletal therapies and women’s services, an urgent care centre including paediatrics and an older persons assessment unit, theatres, day surgery, 50 surgical in-patient beds, endoscopy and medical day cases including a chemotherapy unit.

Emergency department redevelopment

At the Royal Free Hospital, two building projects are being undertaken. The redevelopment of the emergency department is currently underway. Preparation work on the lower ground floor began at the start of December, while the main works will begin in January.

Once the works are complete there will be a new 23 hour assessment unit at the Royal Free Hospital, as well as a rapid assessment and treatment area, a larger resuscitation area and a diagnostic hub, which includes x-ray and CT scanning services. The plans also include the redevelopment of the urgent care centre and the provision of a dedicated paediatric emergency department. It is thought the redevelopment will be complete in 2017.

The Pears Building

The trust is also planning to construct a new building, where the multi-storey car park is currently located at the Royal Free Hospital. The Pears Building would be home to the UCL Institute of Immunity and Transplantation, as well as the Royal Free Charity’s offices and an underground car park. There will also be a patient hotel on the top floor of the building.

Scientists at the institute are carrying out ground-breaking research into immune-related conditions like type 1 diabetes and leukaemia. The new building will mean more of our patients will have access to the latest treatments. The Pears Building is expected to open in 2017.